Foundations Asheville, an intentional therapeutic living collective for young adults, proudly celebrates its 10th anniversary this year. What began in 2015 with a single student and a rented home has evolved into a nationally recognized program, featuring five residences, a three-story downtown office, and a dedicated team that has supported hundreds of young adults and families on theirjourney toward independence.
Since its founding, Foundations Asheville has helped students build confidence, healthy habits, and a clear vision for their future through a unique blend of academic support, career readiness, community engagement, and therapeutic guidance. Reflecting on the milestone, Natalie D'Antonio, Admissions Director at Foundations Asheville, shared: "It is deeply touching how much of our team has been here for most of this journey. That longevity means our students benefit from consistent, trusted relationships. And it's our community's strength and resiliency that has helped us navigate hardships along the way. Ultimately, we are deeply fortunate for our greater network, including the families, students, and staff who make this work possible."
A hallmark of this transitional living program's success has been its staff's dedication and continuity. Many team members, including co-founder Mike D'Angelo and several direct-care staff members, have been with the organization for over eight years. This consistency provides students with the trusted, stable relationships that research shows are critical for long-term success during young adulthood. Looking ahead, Mike D'Angelo, Co-Founder and Executive Clinical Director, emphasized the program's commitment to growth and mission: "As we look ahead, we continue to build on the strong foundation that's brought us to this moment. I'm excited to have stepped into the role of Executive Clinical Director, with the support of this inimitable Foundations team. We remain committed to providing compassionate, strength-based support for the young adults and families we serve today, tomorrow, and for years to come."
For families, these efforts translate into meaningful transformation. One parent recently reflected: "We are so excited for our son's next chapter and view his time at Foundations Asheville as truly foundational in getting him where he is today. That he's ready after just six months is a testament to the work being done here. We are already sharing our experience with other families, because there are so many young people in need of this kind of support." Another parent, after visiting campus, expressed appreciation for the unique environment: "The compassion, collaboration, and commitment your team brings are so evident, and it's inspiring to see the difference you're making in young adults' lives. I also loved seeing the dogs during my visit; their calming presence is so special and comforting, especially for my son, who loves animals."
Foundations Asheville's model balances independence and support. Students engage in college or vocational studies, work, community service, and recreational activities designed to build social skills and resilience. This holistic approach has become a cornerstone of the program's impact, helping young adults practice "supported independence" before fully stepping into adult life. The Foundations team also honors the contributions of staff alum and founder, Adam Ray, whose years of dedication were recently celebrated as he "graduated" from the community's staff, a moment marked with the same sense of joy and connection Foundations instills in its students.
About Foundations Asheville
Foundations Asheville is an intentional therapeutic collective for young adults ages 1824 seeking a purposeful path toward independence. Located in the heart of Asheville, NC a vibrant hub for education, wellness, arts, and adventure Foundations combines mentor-supported housing with a robust community life to foster connection, confidence, and curiosity. Students engage in college or vocational training through partnerships with UNC Asheville, AB Tech, internships, and local workforce opportunities, while also developing independence through six core Life Pillars: Academics Career, Social Belonging, Hobbies Interests, Financial Management, Daily Living Skills, and Personal Wellness. With progressive residential phases from supported group homes to student-run housing to independent apartments, participants practice independence at a pace tailored to their needs. Foundations also integrates Tech Health programming and offers 30 weekly activities, blending structure with flexibility. Alumni leave with proven outcomes: continued academic and career progress, stronger interdependent relationships, and sustainable, balanced habits for adulthood. For more information, visit www.foundationsasheville.com or contact Admissions at (877) 318-7273.